The Most Beautiful Cities in Switzerland According to Top Travel Bloggers
Swiss cities are beautiful, we know that. But which are the most beautiful cities in Switzerland? Here’s your answer!
Oh beautiful Switzerland, how I long to once again be back within your borders!
At this point, I’ve visited Switzerland perhaps four or five times, and it had me thinking the other day about which cities people should consider when they’re thinking about visiting the most beautiful cities in Switzerland.
There are of course so many other articles on our site to help you plan a trip to Europe, like how to spend a day in London, planning a 10-day trip to Italy, and visiting Athens, Greece for a day.
If you’re a long time reader, you’ll know that I share my opinion an awful lot, so for this article about Swiss cities, I thought it would be fun to tap some of my friends in the travel blogging industry on the shoulder. I asked each of them a question - “What do you think is the most beautiful city in Switzerland?”
I was pleasantly surprised by the variance that I was offered to that question and wanted to share the results with you to enable to construct your own Switzerland itinerary for your next trip.
This post contains affiliate links. That means, simply, that I may get commissions from some of my recommendations at zero additional cost to you. That being said, my opinions are fully my own.
A Few Things You Might Want to Pack for Switzerland
There are a few things that, knowing what I know now, that I think will be valuable for you to bring to Switzerland. Of course, what you pack is going to be seasonally dependent, seeing as Switzerland has cold, snowy winters, and warm, lovely summers.
That being said, here are a few things you can bring to beautiful Switzerland that will likely serve you well any time of the year!
Rick Steves’ Switzerland - Obviously, it’s no secret that I’m a huge Rick Steves Fan. I’ve got an interview with Rick on my site, and I also run Rick Steves Over Brunch, a podcast reviewing episodes of Rick Steves’ Europe. His advice, especially when it comes to central Europe, is gold, and that certainly applies in this case.
Lonely Planet Switzerland - If Rick Steves isn’t your thing, then this is a nice counterpoint when it comes to a guide to Switzerland. As with the guide book above, it’s going to cover the best of Switzerland, including all the top Switzerland attractions.
Waterproof Jacket - the wind in Switzerland can be a touch biting and the weather can change at a moment’s notice. It’s usually worth it to have a light jacket with you, even in summer. I like the classic Colombia rain jacket, as they’re not too expensive and nice and reliable. (Here’s the men’s rain jacket and here’s the women’s rain jacket)
A Concise History of Switzerland - I’m a book nerd, there’s just no denying it. I found that this book in particular offered me a ton of context for my adventures in Switzerland. It goes back to the dark ages and comes all the way back to the present day.
Trekking Poles - If you’ll be getting outside of the city (and I’m assuming you will at some point) the hiking in Switzerland is a treat, and you should take advantage. If you’re planning on doing over ten kilometres in a day, trekking poles make a big difference for your speed, as well as lessening the impact on your body. They’re relatively inexpensive and worth it.
Fitbit Inspire Heart Rate & Fitness Tracker - If you’re like me when I was in Switzerland, you’re going to be on the move quite a bit, so you might as well track it. This is your basic Fitbit, and honestly it makes being active in another country a whole lot more fun. Think of it as motivation to see as much of beautiful Switzerland as you can.
So, What is the Most Beautiful City in Switzerland?
Beauty, as they say, is in the eye of the beholder. Thankfully, when we’re talking about the ever beautiful Switzerland, there’s no shortage of beauty to behold.
I asked my fellow travel bloggers to consider a few things when they were contemplating what is the most beautiful city in Switzerland.
For one, I wanted my colleagues to talk about what made the city beautiful and ultimately address the primary question of the article. I was also looking to get a bit of history or context as to what made the city unique. Finally, in the interest of readers, I also wanted people to elaborate on what you could actually do in these beautiful cities in Switzerland.
I had a lot of other folks suggesting and submitting beautiful swiss towns, but that’s for another article. Here, I’m just focused on cities, which, roughly speaking, means that the population has to be in the 5 digits, and objectively larger than a town or village.
Think of this list as a bit of a “best of Switzerland” when it comes to Switzerland’s cities, and a reminder that the cities are displayed in no particular or intentional order.
Bern, Switzerland
Claudia from The Travelling Mom:
Bern, the capital city of Switzerland, is a picturesque collection of limestone arcades, cobblestone streets, and towering copper church spires. If you’re planning to stay in Bern, two fantastic hotels to book a stay at are the Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa and the Boutique Hotel Schlossberg.
Its UNESCO World Heritage status protects the medieval Old Town (Altstadt), including the 13th century Zytglogge (a working astrological clock), the Münster Cathedral, and many 15th and 16th century fountains and statues. In late fall, the annual Onion Festival (Zibelemärit) is held near the Federal Parliament buildings, while summer sees children play in the free-flowing water fountains of its plaza.
Summers in Bern are warm and invite outdoor exploration. After visiting the Bear Park to see the city’s namesake bears in a natural habitat, visitors can follow the winding, glacial Aare river to the free Marzilibad bathing area to swim in the pools or float in the fast current of the Aare itself, a favorite local pastime.
Bern’s cultural scene includes a wide variety of excellent museums and art galleries, such as the Bern Historical Museum, Einsteinhaus (the physicist lived in Bern for a time), the Alpine Museum of Switzerland, and Zentrum Paul Klee in the outer ring of the city.
Looking to dine al fresco? Skip the expensive restaurants and head to the popular Migros grocery store for supplies and of course, some chocolate. Enjoy a picnic in the Rosengarten, with its incredible views overlooking the Aare and the Old Town.
It’s a perfect way to enjoy a day in Bern, one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland.
If you’re enjoying this post, you might also want to read my 2 days in Lisbon itinerary or my popular article on the most beautiful cities in Germany!
Lucerne, Switzerland
Whitney from Designs by Travel:
Lucerne (or “Luzern”) is the most beautiful city in Switzerland, and one of the most beautiful places to visit in all of Europe! This striking medieval town sits on the edge of scenic Lake Lucerne and looks up at some of the most impressive mountain peaks in the country. There are short yacht trips you can take on this stunning lake during your visit.
When visiting Lucerne, it’s nice to slow down.
Stroll the cobbled streets through the old town, and check out the interesting medieval architecture. There are many statues and fountains to look at. Several shops line the streets where you can buy souvenirs.
Chapel Bridge goes over part of the lake to the other side of town. Walking over this is a must when in Lucerne. When the sun is shining, the lake is an unbelievable shade of blue. During peak travel season, it is always nice to get out early before the crowds.
There are fun day trips from Lucerne, with Mount Pilatus being one of the most popular. It is an adventure to go up the mountain in the cable car and luge down for the most fun ride you may ever have!
Lucerne is a must-see city in Switzerland. Make sure to add it to your itinerary for your Switzerland vacation. If you are planning a trip to Lucerne, two excellent hotels to stay at while you’re in town are Hotel Des Balances or Hotel Beau Séjour Lucerne.
Basel, Switzerland
Heather from Conversant Traveller:
Hidden away in north western Switzerland, Basel is a bit of an insider secret, with a long and fascinating history coupled with a buzzing modern arts scene.
Gorgeous contemporary hotels, like GAIA Hotel Basel and Hotel Märthof Basel, are found side by side with ancient buildings, and the colourful cobbled streets reveal delightful discoveries around every corner. The best way to explore Basel and get your bearings is with a city walking tour, and it's great wandering around the old town learning about all the city's secrets. Top of the must-see list is Basel Cathedral which dates back to medieval times and sits on top of a hill overlooking the city.
The views here are incredible. If you climb to the top of the tower, you can even see the Black Forest from here!
Tradition is still the beating heart of the city, and nowhere more so than the small ferry boat that takes passengers across the River Rhine. It still uses an old rope technique to pull the vessel across, and it's a lovely way to experience the heritage of Basel.
Visitors should also stop at the colourful Rathaus, which is probably the most ornately decorated town hall you'll ever see. And finally, keep an eye out for Basel's mythical basilisks which you'll find at fountains all around the old town. Apparently on new year's day the water in one of these fountains turns into beer!
Locarno, Switzerland
Carolyn from Holidays to Europe:
Nestled on the shores of Lake Maggiore, Locarno is one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland. Located in the Italian-speaking Ticino region of Switzerland, Locarno enjoys a Mediterranean climate and is a wonderful destination year round.
Locarno’s close neighbours, the Italians, have had a big influence on the region over the centuries and the architecture of the city is steeped in Italian style.
Piazza Grande, an elegant square in the heart of the Old Town, is lined with beautifully restored, pastel-coloured townhouses, and is the perfect spot to sip a coffee and people-watch at one of the many restaurants around the square.
If you’re visiting on a Thursday, be sure to visit the weekly market in Piazza Grande which has been operating since 1164.
The lake is the major reason visitors come to Locarno and one of the most-visited sites is the promenade which runs beside Lake Maggiore.
Wandering along the palm tree-lined promenade, you can see why this is one of Switzerland’s most popular holiday resorts. Incredible hotels like Castello del Sole Beach Resort & Spa and Villa Orselina fill this area. There are beaches for swimming and water-sports galore, and this is also the spot to hop aboard a ferry to visit one of the other towns on Lake Maggiore.
One of Locarno’s most revered sites is the 15th-century Santuario della Madonna del Sasso just a short funicular ride above the city at Orselina.
Whilst it is regarded as one of the most important churches in Italian-speaking Switzerland, most folks visit for the breathtaking views.
Perched above the city, you get a brilliant panorama of Locarno and Lake Maggiore and you’ll see why Locarno is regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland.
If travel in Europe is your interest, you’ll likely also appreciate my article on the best flamenco in Seville or how to have a luxury holiday in Mykonos, Greece
St. Gallen, Switzerland
Rhonda from Travel Yes Please:
St. Gallen is located in northeastern Switzerland, between Lake Constance and the Appenzell Alps. What makes St. Gallen one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland is the collection of architecture and artistic touches in its Old Town.
The gem of this historic district is the Abbey of St. Gall, specifically its towering Baroque cathedral. The elements of its construction make it appear both dramatic and delicate, a winning combination that has made the cathedral a symbol of the city.
The abbey library has plenty to brag about too, as it’s considered one of the most beautiful libraries in the world thanks to its impeccable Rococo hall. The library hall features polished wooden bookcases, decorative columns, ceiling frescoes, and carved cherubs.
Beyond the abbey precinct, you’ll find plenty more examples of fine architecture. There are half-timbered houses, a small 16th century castle, and elegant burgher homes. Most interesting are the oriel windows adorning several of the buildings. Carefully crafted and carved, these windows often tell fascinating stories in addition to being a show of wealth.
It doesn’t take a lot of planning to enjoy St. Gallen’s beauty— simply wander the streets and see what you can find! In fact, if you’re planning a trip to St. Gallen and need a place to stay, click here.
Thun, Switzerland
Chris from This Week in Blogging:
Thun is located in the Canton (or region) of Bern in Switzerland. It’s located precisely where the Aare flows out of Lake Thun, which, quite frankly, sounds like a line from Lord of the Rings as much as anything else. That being said, Thun very much as that fairytale, picturesque sort of look to it.
Honestly, as far as “sights” in Thun are concerned it’s as much about the atmosphere of Thun and the natural surroundings as anything else. Lake Thun, colloquially known as Thunersee, for example, is an attraction unto itself. It offers a stunning backdrop that makes the town photo worthy from almost any angle.
That being said, you should make sure that you visit Scholl Thun, which, of course is a castle. Because we all know that fairytale towns need a castle, right? That’s actually not the only castle, as many would say that Spiez Castle is also worth the visit.
To continue with the fairytale theme, the Vieille Ville de Thoune is a photogenic bridge the wooden bridge that will allow you to cross the Aare that appears at first glance to be straight out of Shakespeare’s time.
On a warm day, Schadau Park is also a can’t miss spot, as well as nice walk along Obere Hauptgrasse.
The Thun Panorama is also kind of neat if you’re looking for something a bit different, but really the main thing to do here is just walk around a see what you find because it’s all lovely in its own way. There are so many great hotels to stay at in Thun. If you’re planning a trip and want some suggestions, you can find great options here.
Zurich, Switzerland
Gemma from Highlands 2 Hammocks:
Zurich is Switzerland’s largest city and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Located on the northern end of Lake Zurich, this city is perfect for a swim in the warm summer months to cool off and chill out after a day out in the city.
Despite its reputation for being an expensive city, Zurich’s beauty can still be experienced on a budget. Hidden around the city, you will find peaceful areas to explore at absolutely no cost. Just one of these spots is the beautiful Botanical Gardens. These gardens are the perfect spot to bring a picnic and soak up the afternoon sunshine. It has three greenhouse pods, each with a different climate, featuring different plants from around the world.
Once you have had enough of the tranquility of the Botanical Gardens, take a stroll up Lindenhof Hill to the highest point of the city. The view over the river and surrounding buildings is a fantastic place to enjoy the sunset over the city, and what a fantastic place to end your time in Zurich it is. Make sure you plan ahead to find the best accommodation options in Zurich, by clicking here.
Vevey, Switzerland
Sarah from Borders & Bucket Lists:
Situated on the shores of Lake Geneva (locally known as Lac Léman) in the francophone part of the country, the city of Vevey embraces one of the best qualities of Switzerland: its natural beauty.
Just across the lake, you’ll get stunning views of snowcapped French Alps. Plus, depending on the time of year, you may also see colorful tulips blooming, eye-catching orange leaves falling, or unique little snowflakes descending.
One of the best things to do in Vevey is to simply walk along the promenade around Lake Geneva. Sit in one of the chairs placed along the rocky shoreline. Take a picture with the iconic giant fork sculpture found in the lake known as La Fourchette. Maybe even grab a pastry from a local bakery that you just happen to pass by.
If you want to embrace these breathtaking natural views throughout every moment of your time in Vevey, consider staying at the Hôtel des Trois Couronnes. Just steps away from Lake Geneva, you’ll be able to wake up to a picture-perfect scene of the lake and the French Alps. And those views never leave! You could watch them until the sun sets hours later if that’s what your heart desires.
Geneva, Switzerland
Ioana from The World Is My Playground:
Geneva, a gem nestled between a picturesque lake and three infamous mountain ranges, is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, if not the world. As the second-most populous city in Switzerland (after Zurich), Geneva also boasts a pleasant and mild climate year-round due to its geographical position.
Everywhere you go, you’ll find yourself surrounded by beautiful parks, walkways and green spaces. One of the famous attractions in the city is a flower clock, the biggest in the world, measuring 5 meters in diameter. The clock is made up of more than 6,000 live flowers that grow and bloom at different times, thus making it change colours periodically.
Get lost among the picturesque streets of Geneva’s old town and discover some of its hidden gems, quaint restaurants, museums, historical buildings and cafes. Don’t miss Rue Verdaine, perhaps one of the most charming streets in the old town, and Bourg-de-Four Square, the oldest place in Geneva.
Next, explore Lake Geneva by strolling around the lake and admiring the views, hanging out at one of the city’s many beaches, going sailing or partaking in other water sports. As one of the largest lakes in Western Europe and the largest body of water in Switzerland, the lake caters to all types and is a tourist attraction all on its own.
In the middle of the lake, you’ll see the Jet d’Eau, an 140-meter high water fountain that’s become an accidental symbol of the city. Originally built as a pressure release system for a hydraulic plant, the water jet was moved closer to the city after it became hugely popular. It has since become one of the most recognizable and famous attractions in Geneva and can even be seen as you fly into the city!
Geneva is internationally known as a hub of diplomacy, which is fitting given the fact that it's home to many United Nations (UN) agencies and other international organizations like the International Red Cross. To learn about the history of the UN, start by taking a tour of Palais des Nations.
If you have a car, get out of the city and head to Mont Blanc. Though its peaks can be seen from Geneva, it’s only an hour away, making it the perfect day trip. If you’re looking for great options for places to stay in Geneva, click here.
If this article was up your alley, check out my post on the best beaches on the Costa Brava or my article on the best bookshop in Santorini
Nyon, Switzerland
Trijit from Budget Travel Buff:
Nyon is about 20 minutes driving distance (25 km North-East) from Geneva. This city has become part of the metropolitan area of Geneva. You can spend a quality time with your family or kids in this charming and peaceful town that lies on the shore of Lake Geneva. If you’re looking for some excellent accommodation options in Nyon, click here!
The best way to explore Nyon is by walking around the town walls known as Promenade des Vieilles. The city itself is very beautiful and you can enjoy some flower filled parks while walking around the town walls. There is a beautiful castle in Nyon named Chateau de Nyon from where you will get a fantastic view of Lake Geneva, the French Alps and Mont Blanc.
The Nyon Castle has lots of history including the Tower and Prison Floor and the museum has some pretty good collection of old porcelain, paintings and photographs.
Later you can pay a visit to Lake Geneva Museum (Musee du Leman). It offers a variety of historical objects like the cockpit of a boat, large quiz wheel, classic old postcards, fish tanks etc. It is worth a visit especially if you come here with children.
If you are a music lover then don’t forget to buy a ticket in advance for Paleo Festival. It is Switzerland’s biggest open-air festival that held generally in July month of every year. Music artists of different genres gather here from all over the world and make this city more vibrant with concerts and shows.
The tickets to the Paleo Festival usually sell out because of the festival’s popularity, so book your ticket in advance.
Montreux, Switzerland
Melissa from Thrifty Family Travels:
At the foot of the Swiss Alps and along the shoreline of Lake Geneva, Montreux is without a doubt one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland. This city has a stunning promenade which runs along Lake Geneva and is lined with colourful flowers and Mediterranean trees, which is just perfect for leisurely strolls. You can find so many beautiful hotels in Montreux—use the list here to get started.
Due to the natural beauty of Montreux, this town has attracted many well-known artists and writers. People that have called this town home at one time or another include Charlie Chaplin, Freddie Mercury, Prince and Igor Stravinski just to name a few.
As well as being stunning, Montreux has a few well-known attractions which tourists visit in droves each year. In Montreux you will find the Chillon Castle, a gorgeous little castle situated on Lake Geneva, which is one of the most visited castles in all of Switzerland. In Montreux you will also find the famous Lavaux terraced vineyards which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Other things to do in Montreux include a visit to Chaplin’s World, Alimentarium (the first museum in the world about food), the Queen Music Studios, a cruise along Lake Genevan, as well as the various hiking trails. During the winter months it’s also worth while taking a day trip to Rochers-de-Naye for various snow related activities.
Neuchâtel, Switzerland
Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan:
The lovely small city of Neuchâtel sits at the foot of the Jura mountains and also enjoys views of the much higher Swiss Alps on the other side of the eponymous lake. If you’re planning a trip here and want a great place to stay, click here!
The city's name means "new castle" in French, and predictably there is a castle that sits on top of a hill in the city center. Dating from the 12th century, it's hardly new, though. The castle now houses the Cantonal Parliament. Nearby is the Prison Tower, which can be climbed for one of the best views of the city, the lake and the surrounding mountains.
The old town as a whole is a joy to wander around, with its cobblestone lanes, decorative fountains and yellow sandstone buildings dating from the 18th century. Another great place to go for a stroll or a cycle is along the shore of Lake Neuchâtel, the largest lake that sits entirely within the borders of Switzerland. Lake Constance and Lake Geneva are both larger but share borders with neighboring countries.
Perched around the lake are a number of vineyards, which are at their most picturesque in autumn when the leaves of the grapevines start to change colors. The harvest festival, or fête des vendanges in French, is celebrated with much fanfare in the last week of September and is a sight not to miss.
Sailing on the lake is a popular pastime with the locals and offers a unique view of the city from the water. And of course, even if you don't have access to a sailboat, you can plunge straight into the lake and go for a swim, although the water is usually pretty chilly.
In the summer months, Bar'King, one of the city's most popular nightlife venues, rebrands itself as the King du Lac and relocates to the lakeshore, where a young crowd gathers to listen to live music and local DJs.
Lausanne, Switzerland
Christopher from Ultimate Ontario:
Lausanne is the capital city of the region known as “Vaud in Romandy” in Switzerland. Its location alone makes one of Switzerland’s most beautiful cities as its situated on the shores of lovely Lake Léman, and has the Jura Mountains situated to its northwest. Find great accommodation options in Lausanne here!
It’s not as talked about as it should be considering it’s actually the fourth largest city in Switzerland.
Lausanne is a headquarters for international sport. The International Olympic Committee is based in Lausanne, as well as the Court of Arbitration for Sport, and over 50 other international sport associations. In fact, the city is widely considered to be the “Olympic Capital” for those very reasons.
For tourists, it’s all worth noting the wine region which has grown remarkably over years. The city also has a nearly 30 station metro system, which makes it the smallest city in the world to have a transit system that could be considered “rapid.”
As far as can’t miss attractions in Lausanne are concerned, you need to first make time to visit the Olympic Museum Lausanne. You’d also be remiss to visit without setting eyes on the Cathedrale de Lausanna, which many Swiss citizens consider to be one of the nation’s most stunning cathedrals. You should also take time to wander around Le Port D’Ouchy, set eyes on Savabelin Tower, peruse the Olympic Park, and appreciate the Collection de l’Art Brut.
More than anything though, if you love the Olympics and competitive spirt and sport at large, then you’ll love Lausanne!
Planning Your Switzerland Itinerary - Where Should You Stay in Switzerland?
Naturally, where you stay is going to depend on which cities you’ve got on your Switzerland itinerary that you feel encapsulate that classic Switzerland beauty.
I’ve populated the search box here with a country wide query so you can take a peek at some recommended and top hotel properties during the dates that you’ll be in Switzerland.
Beautiful Switzerland Awaits!
The good news is that you don’t have to think too hard about the best cities to visit in Switzerland because, whatever you decide, all of these cities listed above are beautiful in their own right.
In all likelihood, when you’re putting together your Switzerland itinerary, you’re going to want to choose a few cities that pique your interest, and in between visiting those cities, you’re going to want to get out in nature and visit some smaller towns and villages.
In general, Switzerland has a solid transportation infrastructure, so you can really sculpt the trip you’re looking for with relative ease. It’s not going to be as hard as you think to see the best of Switzerland, but it will take some planning, so I can only hope this post was useful for you.
So, who can say which city actually takes the title of the “most beautiful city in Switzerland?” The real beauty of travel is that you can go there and decide for yourself.
Feel free to reach out on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter to let me know your thoughts. I wish you happy travels, my friends.
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